The Thunderbird Takes a Dark Turn

An ominous twist on a classic bass, the Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV growls with a dark, snarling tone to match its sinister facade. Thunderbird basses have long been prized for their bold sound, and the Epiphone Goth Thunderbird adapts this characteristic tone to a bass that triumphs with heavier genres of rock. Dual TB plus bass humbuckers drive the low-end roar, while a hard maple neck with rosewood fretboard equips this Thunderbird with a smooth playability to conquer the most daunting of metal riffs.

Back in Black

Dark appointments distinguish the look of the Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV. The solid mahogany body is finished in black with black pickguard, black hardware, and black pick-ups. The goth-inspired inlay on the twelfth fret and emblem on the pickguard further the striking visual statement made by this unique bass. All and all, the Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV presents a bold look to match its bold sound.

If you have additional warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer at 800-4GIBSON

Epiphone Goth Thunderbird IV Bass

The Goth Thunderbird Bass puts a dark twist on an old favorite and with a Pitch Black finish, becomes the black diamond of the Goth collection. The Thunderbird first issued from the legendary Kalamazoo factory in 1963 was for a time the only bass available from Gibson or Epiphone. But really, what else could you need? The Thunderbirds unique reversed zig-zag body design and equally distinct headstock was the brainchild of legendary automotive designer and visionary Ray Dietrich, who was enlisted by the Kalamazoo factory to bolster the guitar lines of the early 60s and help solidify the factories eminent rank among solidbody electric guitar manufacturers. The Thunderbird bass was quickly embraced by rock and rollers in the States and in England and Europe, and today is still the ultimate rock and roll low end machine. Building upon the long-term success of the classic Thunderbird, Epiphone introduces the Goth ThunderbirdTM IV for serious rockers only.

Like all of Epiphone's instruments, the Goth Thunderbird-IV comes with their Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson 24/7/365 customer service.

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"Buy this guitar. It won't let you down."

Sound:
Despite the low price point, this guitar is very much stage worthy. The sound is clear with an immense growl and serious punch. While the sound is dedicated to being incredibly dark, it somehow manages to do justice across multiple genres. This guitar is extremely playable.
When you see below what I paid for it right here on zzsounds, keep in mind that it is both blemished and was on labor day sale.
Feature:
Most useful: As someone who very much prefers to use a thumb rest this guitar is perfect. When I bought it I was concerned over wether or not the pickups could be used effectively as thumb rests but I took the plunge anyway. It turns out that the pickups are contoured with great care to accommodate a resting thumb. Past that, there is a ridge carved into the guitar that can serve as a thumb rest that runs the length of the body. This allows you to rest your thumb absolutely anywhere on the body allowing you to easily create more dynamic sound without fiddling around.
Least useful: While I like the bridge well enough, I have yet to figure out of to adjust string spacing which may not even be possible. Further, I know for a fact that it is not possible to adjust individual string height. But don't look at these as deal breakers! This guitar is so playable it doesn't bother me. As another plus you can adjust overall string height with the tiniest turning of a single screw.
Ease of Use:
The sound this beast produces is fantastic and highly distinct.
Quality:
So far this thing is solid as a rock. One thing to note: This guitar is humongous. Even the headstock is substantially larger than any I have ever seen. After unpacking it the first thing I thought was, "Does this double as a Kliningon weapon?". Be careful with it or you might knock something over or put a hole in the ceiling. Not that I consider this a downside. It is this unique styling that makes it an object of physical beauty. You will get a lot of compliments regarding the guitars look and presence.
Value:
Oh my yes!
Manufacturer Support:
Haven't had to deal with them.
The Wow Factor:
Extract answer to this from previous answers.
Overall:
I am comfortable enough with the high quality of this guitar that I now fully intend to drop $500 for the pro model at some point in the future. However, I am so satisfied with this guitar I don't see justifying that purchase for awhile. Maybe next spring\summer. Also, I may now be dedicated to Epiphone bases in general.

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"This bass is possessed by a sexy, mysterious and wicked demoness!"

Sound:
Sound is a low, groovy, wicked rock rumble. Turn the tone up for clarity when using distortion. Sound is great for passive pickups; I love these new ceramic pickups. Since I don't do much tapping, slapping and popping, the lack of active pickups isn't a drawback. Sounds great through an overdriven guitar amp, but even sweeter through a good Fender or Hartke Bass rig.
Feature:
The Schaller tuners are great; very precise. The neck is thicker than an Ibanez or Jackson, but easier to handle than a Fender or Ernie Ball. Body shape and finish are just a gorgeous combination. The tuning gear are in-line making tuning easier.
Quality:
Finish and fit were top-notch. No loose parts, but some cosmetic blemishes where the fingerboard meets the neck.
Value:
This is a great upgrade for players after some initial experience. Also a great backup bass, but as a main bass it may not be as versatile as it's a groover's bass. For bass players who tend to overplay 'cause they're lead guitarist wannabes, they'll get quickly tired showing off because the weight distribution is that much of a problem. Left-arm strength is a must for this model.
Manufacturer Support:
No service needed so far.
The Wow Factor:
Classic looks, attention-grabbing. Yes, it's sexy. You'll look great wearing it onstage, and it's got enough tone versatility to make it practical for a few songs.
Overall:
I'm keeping this one forever, play it even after it's ugly and beaten. May upgrade it later.

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